Name: Cynthia D. Brodsky  
Community: Manhattan 
Occupation: Retired educator; Philanthropist

ADL Role: Sponsor of the Edward Brodsky Legal Conference, New York Regional Board Executive Committee

1. How did you get involved with ADL?

Ed, my late husband, inspired me. He was one of the founders of the New York Lawyers Division and the Legal Conference. I was always proud to support him, his colleagues and friends in building community and connections for ADL’s mission. In the years since he has died I have tried to carry on his mission through the Edward Brodsky Endowment Fund. My involvement with ADL links me to my husband, his commitment to social justice and the experiences we had together through our support of the organization.

2. What does ADL mean to you?

ADL has played such an important role in my life. It has provided a great opportunity to meet others who care about civil rights, justice and fair treatment to all. As the funder of the legal conference, legal internship and trainings for the NYC Law Department, I get to see how ADL’s mission works and changes each year and effects each generation that is touched by it.

3. As a leader in the ADL community, how would you advise others to have a local impact in the fight against hate?

No one is born with prejudice and bigotry. It is learned. As a teacher, I know how important education is and with more learning and more education the cycle of anti-Semitism, bigotry and hate can be curbed. We have to keep trying. My mantra is tikkun olam – to repair the world. To quote Ed, “I want to make a difference and help others make a difference to do the same.”